The NET buses, which serve downtown Norfolk, are a battery-powered fleet with limited range. They must return to HRT’s service facility every four hours for battery recharging. In heavy rains, the buses can sometimes short out, HRT has said.

On average the trolleys are 12 years old. Three need new engines, 12 have faulty transmissions, and eight do not have electronic destination signs, wheelchair lifts or air conditioning, HRT said.

HRT has already ordered two of the Optima Opus hybrids, powered by an ISE Corporation drivetrain. (Earlier post.)